William H. Collins Interview, 18 March 2014
Abstract
William H. Collins, successful architect, spends a lot of time discussing the various projects he worked on throughout Cleveland. He begins, however, talking about growing up in Cleveland Heights, a place where he spent 84 years of his life. He recalls going to the Euclid-105th area and spending time at the movie theaters there. He also talks about the streetcars and how he would take them downtown. He remembers how he became an architect, and he continues by talking about his favorite projects and their challenges. The W.O. Building on East 107th and Euclid was one of the most challenging buildings for him to build. He mentions his relationship with Albert S. Porter, Cuyahoga County Engineer. He reflects on some of the problems in Cleveland, but mentions there is hope and that architectural review boards are on hand to protect important buildings. He talks about the Cleveland Heights school district, especially centered around Coventry Elementary School. The interview is concluded with Collins discussing the Acacia Country Club and how it has become a public space.
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Judson Oral History Project
These interviews with residents of the Judson Park retirement community focus on personal recollections of the city's history and development. Interviews were conducted with the support of the Unger Family Foundation and the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University and were carried out by staff at Judson, alongside a team of researchers and students from Cleveland State.